On this day in 1974 the Metropolitan Opera opened its season with a performance perhaps most notable for who was not present: Montserrat Caballé canceled her own opening night.

On this day in 1986, the Metropolitan Opera opened its season with a new production of Wagner’s Die Walküre.

On this day in 1968 mezzo-soprano Shirley Verrett made her Metropolitan Opera debut as Carmen.

Happy 87th birthday actress Sophia Loren.

Happy 66th birthday to actor, singer and babe Rex Smith.

Happy birthday to soprano Anna Netrebko, who turns 50 today.

Born on this day in 1925 Broadway diva Dorothy Loudon.

Left this world on this day 44 years ago in Paris.

Born on this day in 1933 actress Zoe Caldwell.

Born on this day in 1904 actress Gladys George.

Born on this day in 1938 mezzo-soprano Tatiana Troyanos.

Happy 54th birthday Harry Connick Jr..

Born on this day in 1890 designer Elsa Schiaparelli.

Born on this day in 1924 actress Sylvia Miles.